Long Beach Marathon Returns Oct. 14-15
The Long Beach Marathon, one of the city’s most popular events, is actually a series of races that takes place over two days. The headliner is, of course, the 26.2 mile marathon itself, but there are other races of varying distances and virtualities. In the end, it’s all a celebration of what makes the International City great: community, natural beauty, individual achievement and fun. Here’s the rundown.
AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC 5K
The course begins and ends at the Aquarium of the Pacific (100 Aquarium Way), can be walked or run, making it a perfect race for all abilities. Besides receiving an aquarium-themed medal, 5K participants will also get access to the aquarium that morning at a discounted rate. Participants are highly encouraged to pick up their race packets at the Race Expo at Marina Green (386 E. Shoreline Dr.) on Friday, Oct. 13, from 12-6pm. Parking for the 5K is available in the Aquarium of the Pacific parking structure as well as the The Pike Outlets parking garage (65 Cedar Ave).
MARATHON
Long Beach has always been known for having a fast, flat marathon course.This year’s race starts in Downtown Long Beach, heads through Shoreline Village and then along the beach path. Marathoners head through Belmont Shore toward Marine Stadium, then complete a 5K loop around Cal State Long Beach before heading back to finish on Ocean Boulevard where they will receive a medal, T-shirt, tote bag and refreshments. Race packets can be picked up at the Race Expo at Marina Green (386 E. Shoreline Dr.) on Friday, Oct. 13, from 12-6pm or Saturday, Oct. 14, from 10am-4pm. For parking information, click here.
HALF MARATHON
The half-marathon features a spectacular course, 90% of which has views of the Pacific Ocean. Flat? Its highest elevation is just 45 feet as it winds by the Pike, Queen Mary, Aquarium of the Pacific, and Lions Lighthouse, finishing above the ocean at the bluffs. There, runners receive their medals, T-shirts and tote bags along with refreshments. Race packets can be picked up at the Race Expo at Marina Green (386 E. Shoreline Dr.) on Friday, Oct. 13, from 12-6pm or Saturday, Oct. 14 from 10am-4pm. For parking information, click here.
VOLUNTEERING
The marathon has a long tradition of enthusiastic volunteers who are absolutely critical to the operation of events. Race organizers are looking to individuals, clubs and associations to make up the 1,000 people necessary to make the marathon run great. Duties vary from handing out water to working the finish line to serving as a bike mechanic. Volunteers receive a Race Team T-shirt, special volunteer parking, lunch, credit for community service hours, as well as detailed training before the shift starts. To sign up, click here.
Road Closures
It will come as little surprise that since many Long Beach streets will be playing host to thousands of runners, spectators and support volunteers it will necessitate a significant amount of road closures. Most closures and detours will be in place at various times Oct. 15 between 5 A.M. and 2 P.M. The closures generally include both sides of the street, unless otherwise noted. To see the streets affected, click here.
